Juvederm Vs. Botox: Which Should You Choose?

Juvederm and Botox are two of the most effective, and popular, wrinkle-fighting treatments available. In 2019, more than 7.6 million patients received Botox-type procedures in the United States, while 2.1 million received Juvederm or a similar injectable. In the past, both treatments were expensive. Thanks to the rising popularity of cosmetic procedures, more doctors offer affordable options. By using online resources, patients can develop a better understanding of these techniques.

Choosing Between Juvederm and Botox

Both Juvederm and Botox can be effective cosmetic treatments for reducing the appearance of wrinkles. However, not every wrinkle is made (or treated) equally. A filler like juvederm is typically used for wrinkles that occur when a person’s face is at rest, while Botox is meant for expression lines (wrinkles that appear during movement).

Juvederm is a non-permanent dermal filler - an injectable gel made of a compound similar to the naturally occurring hyaluronic acid found in connective skin tissue. This compound binds to water, which then creates a plumper look. Dermal fillers are injected with a small needle just beneath wrinkles or scars to alter the skin’s texture. Juvederm may provide more consistent, long-lasting results than other types of fillers (for instance, fat injections).

Botox is an injectable protein made from Botulinum toxin. Contrary to popular belief, Botox is not the toxin itself, and it’s considered safe for most patients. Unlike a dermal filler, Botox doesn’t fill out the area around wrinkles. Instead, it weakens the muscle at the injection point.

Patients should discuss their options with qualified cosmetic specialists; physicians can help determine whether Botox or Juvederm will meet the patient’s goals. Ideally, patients should visit several clinic websites, evaluating them carefully to learn about qualifications, pricing policies, and other important info.

Are Juvederm and Botox Safe?

Both injectables are FDA approved and have minimal safety risks, but as is the case with all medical treatments some people experience side effects. The most common Juvederm side effects include redness and swelling at the infection site, along with itching, pain, and tenderness. Juvederm injections often include lidocaine, a topical anesthetic, which reduces the pain.

Botox side effects can include:

• Redness, swelling, and bruising at the injection site
• Temporary drooping eyelid or eyebrow (for injections around the eye)
• Temporary drooping corners of the mouth or difficulty with speech (for injections around the mouth)
• Mild flu-like symptoms
• Dry mouth
• Headache or upset stomach

All cosmetic treatments can cause side effects, and with both products, the vast majority of side effects are minor and temporary. Both products offer essentially immediate results; Botox injections typically provide those results for 3-6 months, while Juvederm injections last from 9-18 months.

Finding Affordable Options for Juvederm and Botox

At around $20 per dose, Botox is less expensive per unit than Juvederm, but it can sometimes take upwards of 20 units for a small, selected area of treatment. Juvederm typically costs around $600 per syringe. On average, Juvederm costs around $1,000-2,000 total per treatment, while Botox costs around $1,000 per treatment.

However, costs vary greatly depending on the patient’s goals, health history, and location. Patients may be able to maintain control of their budgets by looking at several reputable clinics in their area. While doctors will need to perform an in-office evaluation before providing a firm price quote, many clinics list basic pricing information on their sites - along with helpful info about the capabilities and limitations of each treatment.

Some tips for researching:

• Look for several physicians. Undergoing a cosmetic procedure is a major decision. Patients should review all of their available options and keep detailed notes about each doctor’s experience, capabilities, and qualifications.
• Ask about all of the costs and fees involved in treatment. While some clinics advertise cost per dose, the final bill will usually include other charges. Never make assumptions, especially when comparing costs between clinics.
• Use consultation forms to gather more information. While medical workers can’t answer every question without an in-person visit, many clinics will respond quickly to online forms, providing additional info that will help patients understand what to expect.

Finally, be prepared to spend time reading and researching. A quick search can provide patients with peace of mind, and reviewing local options is an important first step.

Using Online Resources to Learn About Juvederm and Botox

Juvederm and Botox are minimally invasive cosmetic procedures, and millions of people use these treatments to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and attain a more youthful look. People considering either option should look for local cosmetic doctors and surgeons. The resources on this page can help to jumpstart that process.

By collecting information online, patients can have informed conversations. Clinic sites can explain capabilities, costs, and potential side effects, which can make the initial consultation much easier.

With some quick searching, people can choose options that work for them - and get the results they need to live a more comfortable, confident life.